Zy moet doch aardig zyn, de mode van deés dagen, / Mits dat de dieren zelfs die als nu willen dragen / La mode de nos jours (qui peut le concevoir) / Envers les Bêtes même exerce son poivoir 1800 - 1833

This hand-colored etching now in the Rijksmuseum was created by Philippus Jacobus Brepols around the turn of the 19th century. Brepols was active during a period of significant social and political upheaval in Europe, including the French Revolution and the Napoleonic era, which likely influenced his satirical perspective. Brepols critiques the excesses of fashion by depicting animals dressed in the latest styles. The title translates to "The fashion of our days (who can conceive it) even exercises its power over the beasts." Through this juxtaposition, Brepols suggests that fashion is not only absurd but also a form of social control extending even to the animal kingdom. The print reflects a broader commentary on social hierarchies and values. In dressing animals in human clothing, Brepols questions what truly distinguishes humans from animals. He suggests that fashion, with its artificial distinctions and superficial values, obscures deeper connections and shared vulnerabilities. It encourages us to consider the emotional and personal dimensions of how we perform identity and engage with societal expectations.